Group violence, in particular through forms of organised crime, presents a major challenge to building sustainable development and protecting communities. Armed and criminal groups serve to undermine state institutions, curtail freedoms and enjoyment of human rights, and exacerbate state fragility and corruption.

This event, organised by Chemonics and the Global Initiative Against Transnational Organized Crime, will discuss the changing dynamics and narratives of group violence and organised crime across key contexts in the Americas and Africa. The panel will then discuss how effective responses to group violence may be supported, with a particular focus on women and girls, to counter violent criminal behaviour.

The panelists will seek during this event to highlight key elements in the perpetration of group violence and to identify how comprehensive solutions can be framed by identifying specificities of each case. A community-based approach will be hence discussed in this scenario.

Built to bring together the large number of organisations and actors in Geneva promoting and building peace, the Geneva Peace Week is the opportunity to learn and discuss about diverse efforts towards the achievement of this agenda. A variety of events, workshops and meetings take place during this time highlighting the efforts to work for rights, well-being and resolving conflict, by opening a constructive and inclusive environment.